How to Reach Ex-Managers for References

Landing a solid reference from a former manager can dramatically increase your chances of getting an interview. According to a LinkedIn survey, 85% of recruiters consider references a top factor when evaluating candidates. Yet many job seekers hesitate to ask the very people who know their work best. This guide walks you through the entire process—pre‑outreach preparation, channel selection, messaging templates, follow‑up etiquette, and tracking—so you can ask for references with confidence and professionalism.

Why Ex-Managers Matter More Than You Think

• Credibility boost – A reference from a direct supervisor validates your performance, leadership style, and cultural fit.
• Insider insight – Managers can speak to specific projects, metrics, and soft‑skills that a generic recommendation cannot.
• Network effect – A strong reference often leads to introductions to other hiring managers within the same industry.

A recent Glassdoor analysis found that candidates with a manager reference were 30% more likely to receive a job offer than those without one. This statistic underscores why mastering the art of reaching ex‑managers is essential for any serious job seeker.

1. Prepare Before You Reach Out – The Ultimate Checklist

Do & Don't Quick List

• Do research the manager’s current role and recent achievements.
• Do be concise—respect their time.
• Don’t use generic copy‑paste messages.
• Don’t ask for a reference before you’ve re‑established rapport.

2. Choosing the Right Channel

Email – The Professional Standard

Email remains the most widely accepted method for reference requests. It provides a written record and allows the manager to respond at their convenience.

LinkedIn – The Social Shortcut

If you’re already connected on LinkedIn, a brief InMail or direct message can feel more personal. Pair it with a follow‑up email for formality.

Phone – The High‑Touch Approach

A phone call works best when you have a strong prior relationship. It conveys urgency and allows you to address concerns in real time.

Pro tip: Use Resumly’s Networking Co‑Pilot to generate a tailored outreach script based on your industry and the manager’s profile.

3. Crafting the Perfect Email Template

Below is a proven, fill‑in‑the‑blank email you can adapt. Feel free to copy‑paste and customize.

Subject: Request for a Reference – [Your Name]

Hi [Manager’s First Name],

I hope you’re doing well! I’ve been reflecting on my time at **[Company]**, especially the **[Project X]** where we achieved **[specific result, e.g., a 20% revenue increase]**. I’m currently exploring new opportunities in **[Target Role/Industry]**, and I would be honored if you could serve as a professional reference for me.

If you’re comfortable, could you:
1. Confirm the dates we worked together (e.g., Jan 2020 – Mar 2022).
2. Highlight the impact of **[Project X]** and my role in it.
3. Share any feedback on my leadership/communication style.

I’ve attached an updated version of my resume for context. Please let me know if there’s anything else you need.

Thank you for considering my request. I truly appreciate your support.

Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Phone] • [LinkedIn URL]

Why this works:

• Specificity shows you value their time.
• Clear ask (three bullet points) makes it easy to comply.
• Attachment (resume) gives them a quick reference.

4. Phone Script – When a Call Is Appropriate

1. Greeting & Context – “Hi [First Name], it’s [Your Name] from the [Team] at [Company]. Do you have a couple of minutes?”
2. Purpose – “I’m applying for a senior product manager role and would love to include you as a reference.”
3. Reminder of Achievements – Briefly mention the project you led and the measurable outcome.
4. Ask Directly – “Would you feel comfortable speaking to my performance for this role?”
5. Offer Details – “If a recruiter reaches out, I can send a short brief with the key points we discussed.”
6. Close – “Thank you, I really appreciate your help. I’ll follow up with an email containing all the details.”

5. Follow‑Up Etiquette – Do’s and Don’ts

A polite follow‑up can increase response rates by 27% (Yesware research). Use Resumly’s Application Tracker to log each interaction and set automated reminders.

6. Leveraging Resumly Tools to Strengthen Your Request

• AI Cover Letter Builder – Generate a tailored cover letter that references the same achievements you’ll mention to your ex‑manager. Include the link in your email for consistency.
• Job‑Match Engine – Identify the exact keywords recruiters look for, then ask your manager to incorporate those terms into the reference.
• Career Guide – Review the Resumly Career Guide for additional networking tips.
• Networking Co‑Pilot – Use the AI‑powered script generator to craft LinkedIn messages that feel personal yet professional.

By aligning your reference request with the language of the job posting, you make it easier for the manager to speak directly to the hiring team’s needs.

7. Mini Case Study: From Cold Outreach to Offer

Background: Sarah left her role as a Marketing Analyst at TechNova in 2021. She needed a reference for a senior marketing position at BrightWave.

Steps Sarah Took:

1. Updated her resume using Resumly’s AI Resume Builder.
2. Identified her former manager, Maya, who oversaw the “Product Launch Campaign.”
3. Sent a personalized email (template above) with a concise bullet list of achievements.
4. Followed up after 4 days with a brief thank‑you note and attached a one‑page reference outline.
5. Used Resumly’s Application Tracker to log Maya’s response and set a reminder for a second follow‑up.

Result: Maya responded positively within 48 hours, provided a glowing reference, and Sarah received an interview invitation within a week. She ultimately secured the senior role, citing Maya’s reference as a decisive factor.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How soon after leaving a job should I ask for a reference?

Ideally within 3‑6 months while the projects are still fresh in the manager’s mind. If you’ve stayed in touch, you can ask later, but include a brief reminder of your key contributions.

2. What if my ex‑manager is now a competitor?

Focus on neutral, performance‑based language. Offer to provide a written summary they can edit, and respect any confidentiality constraints.

3. Should I ask for a reference before I have a specific job in mind?

Yes. Building a reference pool early gives you flexibility. Just be transparent: “I’m gathering references for upcoming opportunities.”

4. How many references should I request?

Aim for 2‑3 strong references: one direct manager, one peer or senior colleague, and optionally a client or mentor.

5. What if the manager declines?

Thank them politely and ask if they can suggest someone else who could speak to your work. Keep the relationship positive for future networking.

6. Can I use a LinkedIn recommendation instead of a verbal reference?

LinkedIn recommendations are public and useful, but many recruiters still prefer a private verbal or written reference they can verify.

7. How do I keep track of who I’ve asked and their responses?

Use Resumly’s Application Tracker or a simple spreadsheet with columns for date, channel, response, and follow‑up date.

8. Is it okay to offer something in return (e.g., a testimonial)?

Absolutely. Offering a reciprocal endorsement or sharing a helpful resource (like Resumly’s Career Personality Test) strengthens the professional bond.

9. Final Thoughts – Mastering the Art of Reference Requests

Asking how to reach ex managers for references is less about the mechanics and more about demonstrating respect, clarity, and professionalism. By preparing a concise, data‑driven request, choosing the right communication channel, and following up thoughtfully, you turn a potentially awkward ask into a strategic career move.

Ready to supercharge your job search? Try Resumly’s AI Cover Letter and Job Search tools today, and keep your reference outreach organized with the Application Tracker.

Good luck, and may your ex‑manager become your strongest advocate!